House in Yuma deemed total loss following fire
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – The Yuma Fire Department (YFD) said a house was deemed a total loss after it caught on fire.
In a press release, it happened Thursday in the area of S. 11th Avenue and W. 15th Street, near S. Avenue A, after 5:30 p.m.
Upon arrival, YFD said crews found heavy smoke and fire coming from the rear of the home, prompting them to quickly work to extinguish the fire “while protecting nearby homes from the flames.”
“The reporting party when they called, they said that they were grilling. And then they heard a loud boom,” said Francisco Leon, Public Information Officer for YFD. “The fire is still currently under investigation, but we do believe the cause of the origin of the fire was somewhere around the grill area.”
YFD said the residents were using a barbecue “when they heard an explosion involving a propane tank,” with everyone inside the home being able to evacuate before fire crews arrived.
Courtesy: Yuma Fire Department
Courtesy: Yuma Fire Department
During that time, YFD said crews found a downed live power line and “secured the area until it could be safely addressed.”
While the fire was contained and brought under control, and no injuries were reported, YFD said the home suffered significant damage and was deemed a total loss.
Courtesy: Yuma Fire Department
YFD said the family requested help from the American Red Cross.
As investigators continue working to determine the exact cause of the fire, YFD is reminding residents to practice propane grill safety, especially during the summer months.
“A safety message we sent out was always try to keep your barbecue grills and your propane tanks away from any combustibles,” Leon said. “Away from your home and in a safe spot. Always check your hoses. Check your valves. Make sure everything is in good working order.”
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
018 11th Ave FireDownload Click here to follow the original article.